aivolisäkerroksen

Aivolisäkerros, also known as the pituitary gland, is a small, pea-sized endocrine gland located at the base of the brain, just below the hypothalamus. Despite its size, it plays a crucial role in regulating a wide range of bodily functions by producing and secreting hormones.

The pituitary gland is divided into two main lobes: the anterior pituitary and the posterior pituitary. The anterior pituitary produces and releases several key hormones, including growth hormone, which is essential for growth and development; prolactin, which stimulates milk production; and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which regulates the thyroid gland. It also secretes follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are involved in reproductive functions.

The posterior pituitary, on the other hand, does not produce hormones itself but stores and releases hormones produced by the hypothalamus. These include antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, which helps regulate water balance; and oxytocin, which plays a role in social bonding, childbirth, and lactation.

The pituitary gland is controlled by the hypothalamus, a region of the brain that is connected to the pituitary via a stalk. The hypothalamus sends signals to the pituitary, either stimulating or inhibiting the release of its hormones, thereby maintaining hormonal balance throughout the body. Dysfunctions of the pituitary gland can lead to various medical conditions, such as growth disorders, thyroid problems, and reproductive issues.